Scientists have announced a new diagnostic test for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is considered a pioneering achievement. This test, called Clearstrand-ASD, developed by LinusBio and based in New Jersey, can detect the presence of this disorder in children aged one to 36 months, 92.5 percent accurately.
It is a non-invasive procedure that only requires a single strand of hair and can be used to rule out ASD as a potential condition when there are concerns about a child’s development.
The test targets Infants
According to LinusBio’s team of experts, the test is not designed for general screening but rather targets infants and toddlers who are at a higher risk of ASD, including those who were born prematurely, have a sibling with ASD, or exhibit early signs and behaviors associated with the disorder.
Once your child’s hair sample is taken, the technology utilizes lasers to convert it into plasma, which is then analyzed by sophisticated machine-learning algorithms. This advanced process allows for detecting various metals, substances and toxins that the child’s body may have encountered or processed, providing a comprehensive picture of their metabolic history.
In case all this is new to you, Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects brain function and behavior, often resulting in difficulties with social interaction and communication.
Pollution and Autism
Studies have revealed a concerning trend of increasing pollution and chemical contamination in our food and water sources, which can have a detrimental effect on the health of pregnant mothers and their developing fetuses. These toxins are able to make their way into the bloodstream of expecting mothers, ultimately crossing the blood-brain barrier to reach the brain of the developing fetus. This infiltration leads to inflammation that disrupts nerve signals, potentially leading to developmental issues such as autism
Currently Doctors are using Observation, but this new technology promises to provide a more accurate diagnosis among infants through hair analysis. Parents can then receive one of two outcomes: a negative result, indicating that there is a 92.5% probability that the child will not be diagnosed with autism if evaluated further, or a non-negative result, which does not necessarily rule out ASD but instead suggests that further evaluation and potential intervention may be necessary to address any developmental concerns. The ClearStrand-ASD testing is available in 44 states, excluding California, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island and Pennsylvania. The cost for this advanced technology is $2,750.
At Sacramento ABA Therapy, we understand the importance of early detection and intervention for children with autism. We strongly support research and new technologies being developed to improve early diagnosis and treatment options for families affected by autism, which is why we are excited about the potential of ClearStrand-ASD testing. However, it is not currently available in all states.
In addition to early diagnosis, ongoing support and treatment are crucial for individuals with autism. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has been proven to be the most effective intervention for children with autism. ABA therapy focuses on identifying and reducing problematic behavior while instilling socially significant behaviors, such as communication skills and social interactions. With ABA therapy, a trained therapist works one-on-one with the individual, using positive reinforcement techniques to teach them functional skills and reduce problem behaviors.
This type of therapy is tailored to each individual’s needs and can also involve parental training to ensure consistency in behavior management at home. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about ABA therapy or want to learn more.
